The Pizza Studio announces franchise developments in seven states

May 17, 2013

Los Angeles-based fast casual pizza restaurant The Pizza Studio announced plans to open several new locations this summer and fall. The new restaurants join the 37 units currently in development throughout the U.S.

The Pizza Studio, a build-your-own pizza concept, opened its flagship restaurant in Los Angeles near the University of Southern California (USC) five months ago. Doors to its second downtown Los Angeles location at FIGat7th, a shopping and dining destination, will open in July.

The company recently signed a new partnership with General Growth Properties for locations in San Francisco, Riverside and several other venues. Additionally, the company signed a joint venture deal with restaurant veteran Lloyd Sugarman, cofounder and the largest franchisee of Johnny Rockets. The deal includes plans to build 12 new units in New England and beyond.

"What really differentiates us is that we're built for speed, simplicity and consistency," said Samit Varma, co-founder and president of The Pizza Studio. "Our concept is easily scalable and being multiplied quickly with the offering of our joint-venture partnerships."

The Pizza Studio was founded in 2012 by Varma and restaurant industry veteran Ron Biskin, who most recently served as president and COO of Native Foods Café.